The so-called ‘cliff-edge issue’ would mean a single earning parent with a salary just a few pounds over the threshold could lose thousands in yearly benefits. By contrast, two parents each earning just under the threshold would have a higher combined annual wage but could still claim benefits.

Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt revealed that the government is in talks to make the plans fairer, before Chancellor George Osborne delivers his third budget in March.

However, George is reportedly standing by the proposals, which he described as “tough but necessary”. Employment Minister Chris Grayling has also spoken out about the unlikely chances of a major u-turn by the Government on the issue.